Baltimore Social Security Lawyers
File an Appeal of Social Security Disability Denial in Maryland
Our Baltimore Lawyers Protect Your Rights to SSD Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will notify you of its decision regarding your Social Security disability (SSD) application. Unfortunately, the SSA often denies first-time applications for SSD. Although a denial can be frustrating, you are likely to win approval of a valid claim at the appellate level.
LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, P.A. has helped people with disabilities recover Social Security disability benefits since our firm was founded in 1980. Our Maryland Social Security lawyers know what SSA agents are looking for and how to file a convincing original claim or appeal. We also handle veteran disability claims and appeals if you are denied the amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
You Have 60 Days to File Your Appeal
You must file an appeal within 60 days of the SSA’s adverse decision or you waive this right. If you fail to meet this deadline, you either do not receive benefits or must start the long SSD application process over again. We therefore urge you to contact us immediately upon receiving notice of a denial or if you were approved for an amount less than you expected.
The Four Levels of Appeal
The SSD appeals process includes these progressive levels:
- Reconsideration — Reconsideration is a complete review of your application by an agent who did not participate in the original decision. Our lawyers usually submit additional evidence to build a stronger case at this phase.
- Hearing by an administrative law judge — At a hearing, an administrative law judge decides whether to affirm or overturn the decision made by the SSA. Our lawyer appears at the hearing with you. We have the opportunity to produce more evidence and present witnesses, such as medical or occupational experts, to prove your case.
- Review by the appeals council — The Social Security Appeals Council may make a substantive decision about your claim, return your case to the administrative law judge for further review or deny your request to reconsider the court’s decision. If we are not satisfied with this decision, one more appellate stage is available.
- Federal court review — Our law firm files a lawsuit in federal court asking the judge to decide your SSD benefits case.
Although our Maryland Social Security lawyers are typically successful at the first appellate level, but we are ready to pursue an appeal until we receive a fair decision on your claim. We will be candid about your options and advise you if we believe you are unlikely to prevail on appeal.
Contact the Baltimore Social Security Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton to Appeal a Negative SSD decision
To challenge an SSD application denial, call LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, P.A. at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact our firm online. We will discuss your next steps and likely outcomes at your free initial consultation. Located in Baltimore, our Maryland Social Security lawyers handle disability compensation cases throughout the state. Your well-being is our top priority.